Belt came from out of nowhere in 2010 to establish himself as one of the most feared corner infield prospects in the game. The 22-year old product of San Jacinto CC terrorized opposing pitchers to the tune of a .352/.455/.620 slash line across three stops, finishing up at Triple-A. He also mashed 23 bombs and produced in scarily similar fashion in the Arizona Fall League. Belt should generate plenty of consideration during the next month between the Giants’ front office, who likely will want to keep Belt in Triple-A to retain control of his contract for an extra season, and the coaches, who will beg to have him at first to start the season.

Since the Giants won the World Series with a terrific pitching staff and relatively soft bats, we at the Sombrero expect Belt to get the nod, shifting Aubrey Huff to left. To go along with plus power and potentially a 70-grade hit tool, Belt possesses terrific strike-zone judgment. He posted a 93:99 BB:K ratio in 2010, and his defense is excellent at first. Many scouts think his best tool may actually be his defense, which is confusing not just because he rakes and walks, but because he plays first base, a position also occupied by glove wizards like Adam Dunn and sumo-wrestling vegan Prince Fielder. Nevertheless, we expect more big things from Brandon Belt in 2011, possibly even a Rookie of the Year trophy.